Hayat Ashraf

In a historic move, the Kerala Kalamandalam, a deemed university for arts and culture, has lifted gender restrictions to learn Mohiniyattam. About Mohiniyattam: It is an Indian classical dance form that evolved in the state of Kerala. History and Evolution: Its roots date back to the age-old Sanskrit Hindu text on performing arts called ‘Natya Shastra’. It is used to be performed by Devadasis (temple dancers) in temples during the rule of the Chera kings from 9 to 12 C.E. Features:                               It is conventionally a solo dance performed by female artists. It adheres to the Lasya type that showcases a more graceful, gentle and feminine form of dancing.  Theme: The dance form Mohiniyattam has love and devotion to God as its major themes, with usually Lord Vishnu or his incarnation Lord Krishna as the lead character. It emotes a play through dancing and singing, where the song is customar...